The San Miguel de Salinas council has approved the expansion of the Lo Quilez industrial estate by reclassifying 60,000 square meters of rural land into industrial land, despite it being located in a flood-prone area.
This decision has faced criticism from the San Miguel Arcángel Neighbourhood Association, which argues that the council ignored recommendations from the Segura Hydrographic Confederation (CHS) and the Ministry of Territory.
Both bodies advised against developing flood zones and suggested adding an underground storm tank to the project, although the CHS recommendation is not binding.
The expansion plans involve doubling the current industrial area, with space for warehouses, green areas, and additional roads.
To mitigate flood risks, the municipal government is constructing flood control infrastructure funded by the Generalitat. However, the Generalitat approved the expansion under strict conditions, including raising the ground level by 1.5 meters and creating a rainwater evacuation channel.
The neighbourhood association has raised concerns about the inclusion of a waste management plot in a high-risk flood zone, noting that the location could lead to pollution. They are calling for the council to acknowledge these risks in official records and inform potential buyers.
Additionally, they insist that individual assessments be conducted for plots that may pose environmental hazards.
